‘World must exit road to ruin’ — Antonio Guterres seeks urgent climate action in 2025

António Guterres, the United Nations secretary-general, has urged nations to take decisive action to address the climate crisis and inequalities in 2025.

In his New Year message on Monday, Guterres reflected on the record-breaking temperatures witnessed over the past decade.

The UN chief urged countries to “exit this road to ruin” by making immediate and substantial cuts to greenhouse gas emissions and accelerating the shift to renewable energy in 2025.

“Throughout 2024, hope has been hard to find. Wars are causing enormous pain, suffering and displacement. Inequalities and divisions are rife, fueling tensions and mistrust,” he said.

“And today I can officially report that we have just endured a decade of deadly heat. The top 10 hottest years on record have happened in the last 10 years, including 2024.

“This is climate breakdown in real time. We must exit this road to ruin — and we have no time to lose.

“In 2025, countries must put the world on a safer path by dramatically slashing emissions, and supporting the transition to a renewable future. It is essential and it is possible.

“Even in the darkest days, I’ve seen hope power change. I see hope in activists — young and old raising their voices for progress. I see hope in developing countries fighting for financial and climate justice.

“There are no guarantees for what’s ahead in 2025. But I pledge to stand with all those who are working to forge a more peaceful, equal, stable and healthy future for all people. Together, we can make 2025 a new beginning.”